Contract Manager

Thames Water; Reading; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent utility provider in the UK is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee a portfolio of operational contracts. Based in Reading, this role involves managing supplier relationships, driving performance, and ensuring compliance with company policies. The position offers a competitive salary between £46,500 and £55,000, along with benefits like a contributory pension and performance-based pay. Ideal candidates will have a strong commercial understanding and skills in contract management and stakeholder communication.

Benefits

Contributory pension

26 to 30 days holiday

Personal Medical Assessments

Performance-related pay plan

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing operational contracts.
• Strong technical understanding of commercial and contract management.
• Keen attention to detail and good analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage supplier relationships as contract signatory.
• Drive performance and ensure best value from suppliers.
• Lead contract negotiations and resolve disputes.
• Manage a small team of Contract Performance Coordinators.

Skills

Contract management

Commercial understanding

Analytical skills

Stakeholder communication

Job description

Thames Water is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join our expanding team. This role will be based in our offices in Reading. You will receive a competitive salary depending on your level of experience and a great package which includes a car allowance, competitive contributory pension and a wider benefits scheme which includes an annual pay review, season ticket loans and loyalty awards for continuous service plus much more.

Responsibilities

In your role as Contracts Manager, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of Thames Water operational contracts. Driving performance, developing relationships with suppliers, identifying commercial opportunities and service improvements will be key activities in this role. The role will also include line management of a small number of staff.

This role is located within Thames Water’s Operational Projects and Logistics Team (OPAL). Current contracts cover several key business activities, including waste network services, leak detection, fleet services, haulage, plant and equipment hire, facilities management, waste management and many more. OPAL contracts play a key role in the overall operation of Thames Water’s activities and as such, are high profile within the business.

• Manage supplier relationships, acting as the named contract signatory for contractual matters on a portfolio of contracts.
• Manage the performance of contractors by the relevant contract requirements and business operational needs, to ensure the best value and services from suppliers are achieved.
• Build relationships with key stakeholders and communicate relevant contract information as required.
• Identify and implement opportunities/improvements for commercial efficiencies across operational activities and contracts.
• Lead on contract negotiations and implementation of contract variations as required.
• Provide contract‑related issue resolution for any arising disputes with suppliers.
• Ensure that all processes followed are in line with legislation and company policies and are auditable with key documents, information and communications confidentially stored.
• Line management is responsible for a small number of Contract Performance Coordinators, who will assist with to‑day running of the contracts.
• Complete contract close‑out, reviewing contracts for extension or renewal, and assisting procurement teams where applicable for re‑procurement.

Qualifications

• We are seeking an experienced contract manager with demonstrable experience in managing operational contracts (be that a large-scale high-value contract or a portfolio of contracts).
• A strong technical understanding of commercial and contract management.
• Keen attention to detail and good analytical skills are required.
• Excellent written skills and an ability to communicate information and influence key stakeholders at all levels (internal and external to the company) are a must.

Benefits

• Offering between £46,500 to £55,000 per annum, depending on experience and skills.
• 26 days holiday per year, increasing to 30 with the length of service. (Plus bank holidays)
• Contributory pension – Defined Contribution – Maximum of 12% – 2x employee contribution.
• Personal Medical Assessments – Open to all once a year.
• Performance‑related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets.
• A wider benefits scheme, including our benefits hub, is packed with offers and information to save you money and support your well‑being.

About Thames Water

We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive.

Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy meaningful career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.

When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.

Disclaimer: Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.